Preparing the Next Generation: How to Talk About Wealth with Children

One of the most important parts of legacy planning isn’t the documents you draft—it’s the conversations you have. Preparing the next generation to inherit not just wealth, but wisdom, takes intention, honesty, and patience.

For many women, especially those who’ve worked hard to build financial security, talking to children about money can feel emotionally charged. You may wonder:

  • Will this knowledge change them?

  • Will they understand the value of hard work?

  • Am I giving too much—or not enough?

The truth is, silence can be far more damaging than information. Studies show that when children aren’t prepared for the wealth they’ll one day receive, they’re more likely to mismanage it—or let it become a source of tension, identity issues, or even guilt.

Let’s explore how to begin these conversations with clarity, purpose, and age-appropriate confidence.

1. Start Early—But Keep It Age Appropriate

You don’t need to disclose net worth to teach values. Financial literacy and emotional intelligence can start as early as elementary school and evolve over time.

Early Stage (Ages 6–12):

  • Teach the difference between needs and wants

  • Use allowance to encourage saving, giving, and spending

  • Model charitable giving and explain why you support causes

Middle Stage (Ages 13–18):

  • Introduce budgeting, credit, and delayed gratification

  • Let them manage money for clothes, entertainment, or small goals

  • Explain how your family makes financial decisions—not just what they are

Young Adults (Ages 18–30+):

  • Begin sharing details about your estate or legacy plans

  • Discuss their role in managing inherited wealth or trusts

  • Talk about shared values, family history, and long-term responsibilities

Apriem Insight: These are lifelong conversations—not a one-time download. Build trust over time, not overnight.

2. Share the Values That Guided Your Financial Journey

The “how much” matters far less than the “why.” Make your money story part of your family’s story.

Ways to Share Your Journey:

  • Talk about challenges you overcame—student loans, saving for a home, starting a business

  • Explain the values that shaped your decisions: generosity, independence, resilience

  • Describe moments when money brought clarity—or confusion

Apriem Insight: Values are best passed down through storytelling. Your experience becomes their blueprint.

3. Set Clear Expectations About Inheritance and Involvement

If you plan to leave an inheritance, be honest about it—and clear about what comes with it. Surprises often lead to resentment, confusion, or even conflict.

What to Clarify:

  • What assets may transfer—and when

  • What responsibilities or decision-making roles they may take on (e.g., trustee, POA, executor)

  • What your hopes are for how the money will be used—or not used

Apriem Insight: Transparency fosters trust. Even if you aren’t sharing all details now, preparing your heirs emotionally is just as important as preparing them financially.

4. Involve Children in Real Financial Decisions—Gradually

Talking about money is good. Letting them participate is even better. Give your children opportunities to practice decision-making in safe, guided ways.

Ideas to Try:

  • Let them co-lead a small charitable gift or volunteer outing

  • Invite them to sit in on an annual meeting with your financial advisor or CPA

  • Ask for their opinion on a family value (e.g., saving vs. giving priorities)

Apriem Insight: Involvement builds confidence. Don’t just tell them what matters—show them how you live it.

5. Normalize Ongoing Dialogue About Wealth, Stewardship, and Purpose

Conversations about money should evolve as your family grows. Make it normal—not taboo—to discuss finances, purpose, and planning.

Ways to Normalize Money Talk:

  • Host annual family meetings around shared goals, charitable giving, or legacy vision

  • Encourage open questions—especially from younger generations

  • Share books, podcasts, or articles that reflect your family’s financial values

Apriem Insight: Silence breeds misunderstanding. Openness breeds stewardship.

Your Legacy Starts With a Conversation

The next generation doesn’t just need your wealth—they need your guidance. With intentional, age-appropriate conversations, you can equip your children not only to receive wealth, but to respect, manage, and grow it in alignment with the values that matter most to your family.

Want Help Preparing the Next Generation?

Apriem Advisors specializes in multigenerational planning and legacy conversations. We can help you create a strategy that educates, empowers, and unites your family around shared financial values. Email bri@apriem.com to get started.